Koen Verschuren (38) is an entrepreneur with a background in artificial intelligence and digital strategy. After studying Artificial Intelligence at Radboud University, he worked at ING on the development of smart AI applications within the bank's digital channels. In 2015 he founded BigData Republic, where he helped organisations design and implement data and AI solutions in practice.
He then became Head of AI Strategy at SparkOptimus, guiding companies in translating digital ambitions into concrete, scalable applications — followed by a role as Digital Director at Egeria, where he was responsible for driving innovation across the investment portfolio.
With Nxt Phase AI, Koen now helps organisations adopt AI in a practical and profitable way — from awareness and strategy through to implementation. His conviction: AI only creates real business value when it is applied pragmatically within actual business processes, with a focus on measurable results, achievable solutions, and lasting change.
Most organisations already know AI matters. The harder question is: who actually makes it happen? This workshop is about the human side of AI adoption — how you build momentum inside a company, align leadership and teams, and turn a strategy slide into something that runs in production.
Koen draws on experience from BigData Republic, SparkOptimus and Nxt Phase AI to break down what separates the organisations that implement well from those that stall. The session is hands-on: participants work through real adoption blockers and leave with a sharper view of the levers they can pull in their own organisation.
Designed for young professionals who want to be part of leading the change — not just watching it happen from the outside.
Your ticket gives you full-day access to all sessions, workshops and networking.